Using Technology to Save Lives

The best solution for maximizing efficiency while minimizing cost in PACe is to implement runners and/or a closed channel two way radio connecting doctors and providers. The runners will be utilized by bringing the patients from triage to PACe. This allows the RNs to stay in PACe and maximize their productivity. Simply put, it allows the skilled employees to remain at their skilled area, longer. The runners for the short term should be volunteers. This is reliable because Grady has a large influx of volunteers (from the community and neighboring universities). Over time if this option proves unreliable, a part time employee will be implemented for this position. The other portion where this strategy will be implemented is the connection between the provider and the doctor. In some cases the provider must get permission from a doctor, before making a recommendation, or assigning medications. Under the current system the provider or nurse would wonder around searching for the doctor, which could be anywhere in the ECC department, wasting time that could be better used serving patients. A runner could be implemented under the same guidelines listed above to get papers signed off on, and a closed channel radio between the provider and doctor would be beneficial in connecting the provider and doctor. Both of these recommendations, would greatly increase productivity and diminish wait times for patents.

The hyperlinked article above talks about using wireless (standard 802.11), Bluetooth, and GPS to find and communicate with important players quicker. By finding these players quicker, providers are able to provide life saving treatment in some situations where they wouldn't have before. Grady currently is interested in finding a closed channel two way speaking device to link doctors and providers. It is plausible that this said device could use one of these communication channels.

Works Cited:

Myers, Brad. "Using Technology to Save Lives." WSAZ Home Page | Breaking News, Severe Weather, & Local News Coverage for West Virginia, Ohio, & Kentucky. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2009. <http://www.wsaz.com/news/headlines/69695892.html>.